Here’s a look at some of the latest nonfiction titles we’ve received at CA Library. Look for them in the New Books Section!
Atlas of Empires: The World’s Great Power From Ancient Times To Today by Peter Davidson — Tells the stories of imperial societies throughout human history and shows how they developed using detailed maps. “Thematically, rather than chronologically, organized, each chapter focuses on the rise and fall of a particular empire by examining the motives for expansion (economic, martial, or evangelical), the resistance or collaboration of the colonized, and the overall international situation at the time” (Booklist).
Can Your Conversations Change The World? by Erinne Paisley — Looks at specific ways to use conversation as a social justice tool, stressing the importance of talking about feminism and continuing to fight for equal rights. “[Paisley] cites statistics from a white North American viewpoint, and the book’s inclusiveness only grazes the tip of the intersectional iceberg, but it’s still a good jumping-off point for budding feminists searching for an upbeat place to start” (Kirkus Reviews).
Deep Dark Blue by Polo Tate — A YA memoir of sexual abuse in the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the author’s survival and healing. Since starting basic training at the Academy, Polo Tate did everything right, from academics to athletics. But no one prepared her for what came next: physical, sexual, and emotional abuse at the hands of her superiors — and harassment from peers who refused to believe her story. “In the wake of the #MeToo movement, this gripping memoir reveals the pervasive effects of abuse of power, and the ability to overcome it” (Booklist starred review).
Google It: A History of Google by Anna Crowley Redding — The true history of Google—from its humble beginnings as a thesis project made out of “borrowed” hardware and discount toys through its revolution of the world’s relationship with technology to a brief glimpse of where they might take us next. “More comprehensive than other books for young readers about Google’s founders, with energetically written short chapters, interesting facts, graphics, and photos” (Booklist starred review).
How to Live in Space: Everything You Need to Know for the Not-So-Distant Future by Colin Stuart — An amusing and informative illustrated guide to life beyond our own planet that covers everything from training for and living in space to the future of space travel and tourism. “In three information-packed sections, Stuart covers the basic training needed to survive a rocket-propelled launch, the nuances of gravity-free living, and a preview of humankind’s future on the Moon and Mars. An exhilarating virtual ride for space buffs everywhere” (Booklist).
Immigrant Experiences: Why Immigrants Come to the United States and What They Find When They Get Here by Walter A. Ewing — Weaves together the varied strands of the immigrant experience using detailed historical and contemporary examples that move beyond stereotypes about immigrants to give readers a fact-based understanding of immigration to the United States. “Ewing resists easy political arguments, instead grounding his conclusions in solid facts … readers will appreciate Ewing’s frank analysis of this always complex and troubling issue” (Booklist).
Mary Shelley: The Strange True Tale of Frankenstein’s Creator by Catherine Reef — On the 200th anniversary of the publication of Frankenstein, comes a riveting biography of its author, Mary Shelley, whose life reads like a dark gothic novel, filled with scandal, death, drama, and one of the strangest love stories in literary history. “Reef does an excellent job of putting Mary Shelley’s life and work in context. Teen fans of Frankenstein will be doubly rewarded by both an account of the inspiration for the novel and the fascinating, scandal-rich life of its author”(Booklist).
Our Stories, Our Voices: 21 YA Authors Get Real About Injustice, Empowerment, and Growing Up Female in America, edited by Amy Reed — A collection of essays by twenty one young adult authors that explore diverse experiences of injustice, empowerment, and growing up female in America. “Many readers will see themselves reflected in the pages of this collection and be inspired by the first-hand accounts of overcoming adversity. A great pick for budding writers and activists” (School Library Journal starred review).
Proud: Living My American Dream by Ibtihaj Muhammad — At the 2016 Olympic Games, Ibtihaj Muhammad smashed barriers as the first American to compete wearing hijab, and she made history as the first Muslim American woman to win a medal. But before she was an Olympian, activist, and entrepreneur, Ibtihaj was a young outsider trying to find her place. “Readers who are already fans of Muhammad will love her even more, and all readers will gain much inspiration from this heartfelt memoir of a true American hero. Like Muhammad herself, this book is a timely gift to us all” (Kirkus starred review).
Shark Quest: Protecting the Ocean’s Top Predators by Karen Romano Young — Discover the work of scientists and conservationists as they study shark biology and morphology; research migration, feeding, and mating patterns; delve into human, climate, and other threats to shark habitat; and develop sophisticated technologies to aid sharks and shark research. “This is an engaging, well-researched book about a much maligned species of fish that deserves our protection” (Booklist).